Narcissistic Abuse Syndrome: 10 Key Signs to Recognize

Sign 5: Cognitive Dissonance

If you find yourself justifying the narcissist’s behavior even when it’s harmful, you may be experiencing cognitive dissonance. It’s a common emotional response where you hold conflicting beliefs, causing emotional turmoil.

Sign 6: Loss of Identity

Over time, victims of narcissistic abuse often lose touch with their true selves. You may feel like you’ve become someone else to please the narcissist, causing a loss of identity.

Sign 7: Gaslighting

Gaslighting is a manipulative tactic used to make you doubt your reality. If you’re frequently told you’re imagining things or being too sensitive, this is a sign of gaslighting.

Sign 8: Control Over Finances

Narcissists often seek financial control as a means of power. If you’ve been denied access to money or controlled financially, it’s a significant warning sign.